What Builds Trust Over Time

Jeremy Walters, CEO of Paragon, and I took a few miles walk through New York City to join a colleague at Nizza, a favorite Italian spot just outside Times Square.

Since I became an independent Director at Paragon, our relationship has deepened, built on shared experiences and a mutual commitment to customer experience, operational excellence, and team development.

What Surfaced Along the Way

As we walked, a few ideas stood out:

🔹 Global views help
Cultures and business practices vary widely across the world. Having a global perspective in the boardroom creates strategic advantage and deeper empathy.

🔹 Curiosity drives outcomes
Success often stems from asking the tough questions — the ones that dig beneath the surface and challenge assumptions.

🔹 Trust is built over time
When colleagues show up consistently, we begin to trust not just their presence — but their perspective.

🔹 The people behind the work matter
Understanding someone’s family or personal context adds depth. It’s not a distraction — it’s a connector.

A Final Thought

Taking on a challenge with belief, honesty, and reality isn’t easy but, it can be catalytic.

Jeremy, thank you for the time, the conversation, and the perspective. I value the partnership and the continued opportunity to learn together.

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